I'm freakibg out!!

How are you all! I am a 43 year old female, started smoking at age 15, quit at age 29. I have a history of drinking frequently, although not so much in the past 3 years. I admit I drank way too much in my 20's and 30's. Now I only drink once a month if that.

Three years ago I had a stress test ( treadmill) and nuclear stress test due to palpitations. They had me do the nuclear because of my treadmill stress results, but they didn't say why. Forward to three years later, again I suffer palpitations which have worsened since my stomach issues. I am on pump inhibitor for burning stomach, reflux etc. I have my check up Monday with my primary for my physical and I am sure he will send me to a GI since I am still having nausea and burning stomach.

Anyway, I had my year follow up with my cardiologist two weeks or so ago, and I told him I get palps when I exercise. He wanted to do another stress (treadmill) test on me. I had it done 3 days ago. My cardiologist came out to the hallway with my results saying it came up abnormal which he says could indicate a blockage! I am freaking out now because although my test three years ago was apparently of concern (which is why they had me do the nuclear) I was never told what he told me about it indicating a blockage! I asked him what if my nuclear comes back good what does that say about the stress treadmill report? He said it could mean your heart is slightly enlarged. What???!!!!

H asked if I am a gym rat because it is common in athletes. I exercise frequently but I don't run any marathons. When I worked part time I used to go to the gym 6 days a week 2- 3 hours at a time, but they are different classes: Zumba , Pilates etc. But lately I only exercise on the weekends as I work full time.

Does anyone know if there could be any other reason for an abnormal treadmill stress test besides an enlarged heart or blockage?

Also if heart is enlarged, does that put me at risk for a heart attack while exercising? He told me until my nuclear, not to over do it while exercising. What he is saying to me is scaring me!

I appreciate any thoughts. Sorry for long post!

Thank you straydog! You thoughts help me more than you know! I will definitely let you know how it all turns out.

I used to be so afraid to go to the doctors and get tests for anything. Now I feel waiting for results is worse than the actual test. It's terrible the places your mind goes to during that period.

Thank you pratoman! I can drive myself crazy thinking of all of the negatives instead of focusing on the possible positive outcomes. I think because of all of the palpitations I have, I think it must be bad, and I know the negativity makes it worse. I do feel better them checking and doing whatever test they feel they should do, because I know in the long run it will give me piece of mind.

Than you SharonZ. Had the test two days ago. Waiting on the results which is always the most nerve wrecking part!

My heart is slightly enlarged too. Apparently it does not cause any problems...but who really knows..I'm alive at 61...doc said that women often get this after childbirth because of the load the heart has during pregnancy.